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Originally Posted by beppe
Tell me more, please, why "One of the more common themes for Air Force chiefs is Native American." Themes of what? Thank you  |
Sorry it wasn't more clear. Here's some unofficial U.S. Air Force history (bit dry, sorry):
Chief Master Sergeant is the highest enlisted rank (E-9) in the Air Force and the shortened form of address is "Chief." In the 1970's, the United States Air Force chief master sergeants adopted the American Indian chief as their symbol. The Indian chief is the highest member of the tribe. The chief is also a teacher or mentor to the warriors of the tribe. The chief - an elder - was looked on for leadership.
Upon reaching the rank of E-9, it became customary to give the newly-promoted "Chief" a small bust of an Indian Chief, or a framed lithograph of an Indian leader, usually depicted in full war bonnet. The intent is to capture the virtues of courage, bravery, and honor associated with an American Indian Chief and to encourage the "Chief" to embody these ideals in his/her new rank.
Hope that helps.
Marilyn